Homeless charity in Peterborough preparing for a surge in demand this winter
Yesterday was ‘World Homeless Day’ (October 10)
Staff and volunteers at a homeless charity in the city are bracing themselves for a surge in the number of rough sleepers seeking support this winter.
Around 200 people are assisted by the Light Project Peterborough (LPP) every month – each one with their own personal story and journey to tell.
But as the colder weather draws in, the charity says it is expecting record numbers of people to visit their support centre for help.
Matt Edgley, LPP fundraising officer, explained: "We’ve continued to see numbers of people coming to the Garden House increase each month for the past year.
"This has been due to numerous reasons, but two major causes being the cost-of-living and the rise in mental health issues.
“In July 2023, 196 people came to the Garden House - whereas this July the number rose to 309.”
Mr Edgley said the most significant aspect of the increase has been the number of new rough sleepers coming to the charity for the first time .
"There’s been at least 40 new people coming to us every month for support since the start of 2024,” he said. “Fortunately, since January, we have been able to help 394 people to move off the streets and into accommodation.”
As winter approaches, the charity predicts that the drop in temperatures could lead to even greater numbers seeking help.
To cope with the expected demand, the charity is now looking for more volunteers and donations of supplies – including warm clothing such as gloves, hats, scarves, winter socks and hoodies. Donations can be made to the Garden House, in Gravel Walk, Minster Precincts.
More volunteers will be needed to cover morning and/or afternoon shifts, serving guests with food and drink.
"It’s a great way to give something back to the community, make friends, fill any free time and add skills/experience to a CV,” said Mr Edgley. “It also provides a great insight into homelessness and a better understanding of what people go through whilst living on the streets.”
The Garden House – which offer support, information and advice to rough sleepers seven days a week, celebrated its sixth anniversary earlier this week. In the last year alone, the facility welcomed 978 people over 21,269 visits, and supported 548 people to move off the streets and into accommodation. This was achieved with the help of 65 volunteers who gave 3,234 hours of their own time.
Mr Edgley concluded: “Thank you to everyone who has supported us so those in need within the city can receive the right care, advice and help required.”
• Several staff, volunteers, guests and supports are taking part in the Great Eastern Run on Sunday to raise vital funds for the charity. To support them, visit their Justgiving page.
For more details about the work of Light Project Peterborough, visit their website.